The Porsche RS Spyder, developed specifically to meet the LMP2 regulations was first used exclusively in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) Here, it achieved great success, as numerous race victories as well as manufacturer, driver and team championships in the 2006 and 2007 seasons go to testify. For the 2008 season, the RS Spyder has been further improved, especially in terms of aerodynamics and fuel consumption. In the 2008 season, for the first time in Europe, RS Spyders will be in the starting line-up for the 1000 km races in the Le Mans Series, and at the Le Mans 24 Hours race itself.

The Horag Racing Team from Switzerland has already had many years of motor racing success at an international level. The team as well as the drivers Fredy Lienhard, Didier Theys and Jan Lammers all have extensive experience with prototypes. With the distinctive red-and-white paintwork on their RS Spyder, they are scheduled to take part in the entire LMS season as well as in selected races on the ALMS circuit.

The Dutch team of VM Motorsport comes from the rallying and GT Sport world. With their Porsche RS Spyder, team is now entering this sport in the Prototype class for the 2008 season. In the LMS and the Le Mans 24 Hours races, drivers will include the team owner Peter van Merksteijn, the former Formula 1 driver Jos Verstappen and Jeroen Bleekemolen whos name is well known e.g. from the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.

The third team, and the first to enter an RS Spyder in the LMS, is Team Essex from Denmark. Over the last few years, this team has focused primarily on Touring Car events. John Nielsen, team boss and driver and second driver Casper Elgaard, do however have extensive experience in long-distance races in the GT and Prototype classes. In keeping with VM Motorsport, Team Essex is lined up for the LMS and also has its sights set on the Le Mans 24 Hours race.

You will find more information about these three European RS Spyder teams on their respective websites: